Ex-Ducati man to head Norton push into US

Published: 24 November 2010

Norton has announced that it plans to make its first shipments of new machines to the US from May next year.

The revived British marquee announced today (Weds) that it has appointed former Ducati US boss Dan Van Epps to head-up its operations in the States and to guide the firm’s much anticipated return to the American market.

Van Epps is a former CEO of Ducati North America and, while based in Bologna, Italy, Ducati’s Director of Overseas Markets.

Norton Boss Stuart Garner said:

“We have been producing the new 961 Commandos for almost two years, and the orders have been well beyond our most enthusiastic expectations. We’ve had to ramp-up production much earlier than anticipated to grow on pace with our customer’s requests”, noted owner and CEO Stuart Garner. “The exciting news is that we are now ready to enter the important US market, and we’ve chosen Dan Van Epps be CEO of Norton Motorcycles USA. Dan’s depth of experience, and our policy here at Norton to add to the team only the best motorcycle industry professionals, makes him a perfect fit”.

Van Epps added: “This is really an exciting opportunity for us, and we are all confident about our future, however, I am keenly aware of the magnitude of the responsibility in the introduction of Norton to the USA”, said Van Epps. “We are fulfilling the dream and delivering the excitement of a truly iconic all British motorcycle. Partnering with dealers who likewise understand the significance of this brand and its rich heritage is critically important and will be the key to our success”.